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Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are difficult to
handle, as they do not seem to understand what is being told to them easily and
are always active, which can be quite challenging. Children suffering from ADHD
can be helped only with support and coordinated efforts of parents, teachers,
caregivers and doctors. Structured therapy where the child is give an
environment with greater structure and counseling with clarity of instructions
that tell the child what is expected from him is the best way to tend to ADHD
victims. Specialists and experts related to ADHD and learning problems can be of
great help.
Treatments for the children may also include medicines such as methylphenidate,
dextroamphetamine, pemoline atomoxetine and a combination drug called Adderall
that are helpful in improving attention and concentration and curbing
impulsiveness and hyperactivity. It is a misconception that children outgrow
ADHD. While some children may learn to adjust with their problems with age and
stop being hyperactive in the late teenage years, about 50% of them are easily
distracted, aggressive, have frequent mood swings and are unable to complete
many tasks. However, love and support at home and school and medical supervision
may help them to become well-adjusted adults. Here are some tips for handling
ADHD kids:
* ADHD children are more impulsive, active and aggressive, so they need more
adult supervision than other kids.
* Appreciate and reward your child for completing each step of the task by
playing with him, taking him to a trip or just making him or her happy.
* Children with ADHD may be a slacker in social skills, so you need to observe
them and explain them what they should or shouldn’t do. Reward for good behavior
and manners when others are around.
* Daily or weekly progress notes by the teacher about child's performance in
class and his or her behavior during lunch or playtime can help you too.
* Fixed schedules and timetabled can really help ADHD children. Post it in the
kids’ room where he can always see it and mention time for waking up, eating,
playing, doing homework and chores, taking breaks and going to bed. Inform the
child about any changes in their routine well in advance and note them down too.
* It is the effort of the child that matters and not grades, so reward him for
that. You may do something special for him for earning better grades too.
* Mark a fixed place for homework of the child, where there is no distraction
such as other people, TV and video games. Since the child cannot remain still
for long, it is better to break homework time into small parts and make time for
small breaks.
* Post the rules and the results for obeying or breaking them and explain them
to children too.
* While giving directions to the child, try to get his attention, look directly
into his or her eyes, keep your voice clear and calm and keep the directions
short and simple. Ask the child to repeat the directions to you.
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